Spencer Glacier Float with Chugach Adventures in Alaska
Difficulty
easy
Duration
4 to 10 hours depending on departure location
Fitness Level
Suitable for all ages and fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required.
Overview
Drift along the tranquil Placer River while soaking in towering icebergs and glacier views on the Spencer Glacier Float by Chugach Adventures. A gentle Alaskan float trip beginning with a scenic rail journey, perfect for all ages and skill levels.
Spencer Glacier Float
Ages 2+ • Price includes train tickets • Price & Duration Varies Based on Location
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About This Adventure
Original Tour at Spencer Glacier since 2001!
Our Most Popular Adventure & The Best Scenic Glacier River Float in Alaska
Duration
- Anchorage Departure: 9 hours and 45 minutes
- Girdwood Departure: 7 hours
- Whittier Departure: 5 hours and 15 minutes
- Portage Departure: 4 hours and 15 minutes
About
Get up close to picturesque icebergs at Spencer Glacier Lake after your scenic train ride on the AK Railroad’s Glacier Discovery Train! Chugach Adventures’ was the original guide service at Spencer Glacier pioneering the area since 2001. Enjoy panoramic mountain & glacial views on a 7-mile scenic river float down the pristine Placer River.
More Info
- We provide rubber boots, a PFD (life jacket), and a rain poncho if needed. If you have your own rain gear & rubber boots, please bring them.
- Bring warm clothes, and warm socks to wear with our rubber boots. We recommend having a few layers to wear.
- Placer River is a Class I to II, mellow braided river, with no big rapids. Most guests will not get splashed with water. If you are concerned about getting splashed you can request a spot in the raft that is NOT “splashy” when speaking to your guide.
- This trip is suitable for ALL ages, young and old.
- Cameras are highly recommended. We can’t guarantee that they won’t get wet, although most guests do bring their cameras. We recommend putting them away during the rapid section if you are concerned about getting wet.
- You can leave your bags on the train while you do our tour, or you can bring small bags on the tours that preferably could sit on your lap or near your feet during the float, waterproof bags are recommended
- There are restrooms on the train and at the Spencer Whistle Stop. There are no restrooms once we are on the river, backcountry options only.
- Families and booking parties are put on the same Raft.
Adventure Tips
Dress in warm, layered clothing
Temperatures can be chilly, even in summer; layering helps you adjust to river and weather conditions.
Bring waterproof bags for cameras
While splashes are minimal, protecting electronics and valuables is wise during the river portion.
Request a low-splash seat if sensitive
Communicate with your guide to avoid splash zones on the raft for a drier experience.
Prepare for no restroom facilities on the river
Facilities are available on the train and at Spencer Whistle Stop, but not along the river route.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Bald eagles soaring overhead
- Occasional moose glimpsed near the river edges
History
Spencer Glacier was one of the first glacier fields opened to guided rafting tours, setting the standard since 2001.
Conservation
Chugach Adventures emphasizes Leave No Trace principles to protect this fragile glacial environment from visitor impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Anchorage
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Warm base layers
Keeps you comfortable in fluctuating temperatures under provided outerwear.
spring|summer|fall specific
Rubber boots
Provided by Chugach Adventures or bring your own to stay dry during the float.
Waterproof camera case
Protects electronic devices from occasional river spray or rain.
Rain poncho or waterproof jacket
Essential for staying dry in sudden Alaskan rain showers.
all specific